There was fierce competition at the club TT last Wednesday night. Weather conditions were ideal on the 15km out and back course, from the national school to Killydonoghue. Guest rider, Tomas Kennefick put in a blistering performance stopping the clock at 24:02. This brought out the best in Alan Heffernan and Jimmy Condon who rose to the challenge. When the dust had settled, Jimmy took home the gold medal with a phenomenal time of 23:50. There was also a fierce battle between the ladies. Aislinn Hurley, Cathy O'Sullivan, Ellmary Forde, and Marie MacAree all took the start ramp. There was very little to separate the ladies, with Aislinn taking the honours on the night.
Friday morning saw a big group congregate in the village for the trip to Bantry. The group left the village at 10am and headed for Dripsey and Coachford. From there it was on to Beal Na Blath and Dunmanway. The beginnings of storm Hannah started to make conditions very difficult, with the cyclists travelling into the teeth of the wind. The last 40km into Bantry were among the most difficult cycled in many a long day. Refreshments in the hotel were well earned. Saturday morning saw the storm conditions clear. Such were the concerns following the tough conditions the previous day, reinforcements were sent for. These arrived in the shape of two willy old foxes, Brendan Coakley and Mick O'Leary. The group headed for Schull after breakfast. The west Cork scenery and the banter ensured the miles flew by.
There was great revelry on Saturday might after dinner. Donal Scannell was in full flow, belting out the tunes. A number of members encouraged Donal to give up the cycling and to enter Irelands Got Talent 2020. After breakfast on Sunday morning, the bikes were pointed in the direction of cork city, and the road home was shortened. The route headed over the Cousane Gap, and on to Crookstown and Ballincollig, with the cyclists reaching the village early afternoon. The post mortum was conducted in the Hut Bar. A huge thank you to Betty and John for providing drinks and sandwiches for the cyclists.
There was a first for the club on Sunday morning, when one member turned up on their bike wearing a pair of dancing shoes. There is a strong rumour that the member in question has been coerced to take part in a local Strictly Come Dancing. Stay posted in the coming weeks when more details will be revealed. The Sunday cycle headed for Bartlemy, and down through Ballincurrig and Lisgoold. The pace increased on the road to Midleton, from where the peleton took the back road to Fota. There was a stop for coffee in Cobh Cross. The peleton returned to the village via Leamlara, with a very enjoyable 50km completed.
Club cycles continue each Saturday and Sunday. The club is always delighted to welcome new members. On Sunday mornings at 9am, all levels of cyclists are catered for, with the group split into 3 levels. New members are very welcome to turn up and cycle provided they have a racing bike, a helmet, and are over 18. For further information, check out our club Facebook page or contact us by email info@overthehillcc.com. Details of cycles will be posted on club Facebook page.
